Prospects

Pick Analysis: The Saints pick up the ultra-athletic Jimmy Graham to bolster the depth at the tight end position. The former basketball standout gives the Saints an intriguing young tight end to develop behind Jeremy Shockey. Given his size and athleticism, he could become an immediate contributor as a red zone weapon in his rookie season.

Overview

Graham is a very raw tight end that left the basketball team to turn out for football in time for the 2009 season. He is extremely athletic and has a huge upside but still needs a ton of technique work from running routes to blocking. He is not restricted in his routes and shows a good burst coming out of his breaks to separate from defenders but at the same time struggles to get off the line vs. good press linebackers. He shows strength when going for the ball in a crowd as well as flashes of strength as a blocker but can be sloppy in his footwork when he needs to adjust on the move when blocking in space. He has received comparisons to Tony Gonzalez who played football and basketball at Cal but he is not as developed as Gonzalez was at the same stage. He still needs to shed the basketball work ethic he came with.

Strengths

Graham has an outstanding combination of size and speed for the tight end position. A former basketball player, he shows impressive natural athleticism on the gridiron. Despite limited experience, he has capable hands to make a play in traffic. High-character guy. Possesses tremendous potential.

Weaknesses

Graham lacks game experience with only one year of football under his belt. At this time, work ethic as a pure football player needs to improve. His toughness is in question as he still carries the basketball player label. Blocking tenacity and overall technique need polish and refinement.